BEMIDJI, Minn. (KFGO) – Two men were rescued after UTV they were on broke through the ice on Upper Red Lake Thursday evening.
The Beltrami County Emergency Communications Center received a 911 call from a fisherman that indicated two of the four members of their fishing party had broken through the ice on the southeastern part of Upper Red Lake. Initial information indicated they were wearing buoyant ice suits that kept them afloat. Bystanders used a rope to get the men out of the water and back to shore.
Emergency Responders were immediately dispatched to the scene and staged at a lodge on the southeastern shore of Upper Red Lake. First responders met the two at the resort where they were being warmed with blankets and heaters. Both men, age 67, were treated for hypothermia and cold weather exposure. The air temperature was near zero degrees. One of the men was treated by EMS on scene and the other was transported to the Sanford Medical Center emergency department in Bemidji with a broken hand, hypothermia and cold weather exposure.
While ice conditions have improved with colder weather, ice remains inconsistent in areas. The sheriff’s office says always check with local experts such as guides, resorts and bait shops before going on the ice.
The Beltrami County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by Kelliher Fire and Rescue, Kelliher First Responders, Blackduck Ambulance, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Conservations Officers and bystanders.
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